The heart of Nigeria’s movie industry, Nollywood, converged in Ilorin for a memorable evening on Sunday as Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq used the 16th edition of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards to showcase Kwara as Nigeria’s emerging hub for film production, tourism, and innovation.
The star-studded event, held at the newly inaugurated Sugar Factory Film Studio, drew renowned Nollywood icons who praised Kwara’s growing investments in infrastructure and the creative sector.
In his opening address, Governor Abdulrazaq expressed gratitude to the stars of Nollywood for gracing the event, describing the Sugar Factory Film Studio as more than just a venue but a symbol of his administration’s dedication to bolstering the creative economy in Kwara.
“I warmly welcome you all to Kwara State, and thank you for honoring us with your presence,” he said. “Tonight’s event takes place at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, a purpose-built facility designed to elevate cinematography, nurture local talent, and position Kwara as a hub for high-quality film production.”
Governor Abdulrazaq highlighted the numerous features Kwara has to offer the creative sector, such as its Visual Arts Centre, the Ilorin Innovation Hub, the remodelled Kwara Hotel, and natural attractions like Owu Falls and Sobi Hill. He emphasized Kwara’s advantages in terms of accessibility, infrastructure, and scenic locations for filming.
“Our accessible road networks, proximity to an international airport, and robust sports facilities make Kwara a perfect destination for creative and leisure activities,” he added, inviting Nollywood stars to consider Kwara for future film projects and vacations.
The BON Awards 2024, celebrated at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, witnessed the gathering of Nollywood’s finest, including luminaries like Fred Amata, Hilda Dokubo, Gloria Anozie, Ayo Magaji, Bimbo Manuel, Toyin Abraham, and Aisha Lawal. Notable awards were presented, including a lifetime achievement award for Kanayo O. Kanayo, personally bestowed by Governor Abdulrazaq.
Femi Adebayo, whose hit film Jagun Jagun has captivated audiences, emerged as Best Actor of the Year, securing three additional awards. Celebrated actress Wumi Dada won Best Actress for her acclaimed role in Unknown Soldier. Both stars received N5 million each in wardrobe funding, courtesy of Wura Fadaka, an Ilorin-based brand.
The evening was also graced by key dignitaries, including First Lady Olufolake Abdulrazaq, House of Representatives member Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya, senior government officials, and community leaders like Aare Abisoye Fagade of the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality.
Nollywood veteran Patrick Doyle praised the awards ceremony as a success and applauded Governor Abdulrazaq for transforming Ilorin’s public spaces and infrastructure. “We don’t like to hail politicians, but I need to commend what I have seen in Ilorin. It is a very clean and beautiful city. I commend Your Excellency for this,” said Kanayo.
Bamishigbin, another Nollywood icon, commended the peaceful atmosphere in Kwara, while Big Sam, a prominent digital influencer, noted the city’s new infrastructure and vibrant feel, comparing it favorably to Lagos.
BON Awards founder Seun Oloketuyi expressed his gratitude to the Governor and praised Kwara’s elevation as a competitive player in Nigeria’s creative sector, saying, “Thank you, Governor Abdulrazaq, for the honor and for projecting Kwara as a top player in the creative sector.”
Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, said the Governor’s outreach reflects Kwara commitment to becoming a creative and tourism powerhouse in Nigeria.
